Feral Cat Health Questions

There are a lot of feral cats (i.e. cats that are not domesticated
and live on streets) and they may live in colonies. If you find a feral
cat and would like to adopt him or you have been attacked by a feral
cat, you may have some feral cat health questions.

What Diseases Can Feral Cats Transmit to Pets?

Feral cats may carry a lot of parasites, bacteria or viruses and may
infect domesticated cats that they get in contact with. Parasites (both
internal and external) are easily transmittable from feral cats to
domesticated cats.

Feral cats may spread rabies and this can be a fatal disease in
felines. Make sure your pet has all the vaccines including the rabies
shots, so that he will be protected if attacked by a feral cat.

What Diseases Can Feral Cats Transmit to Humans?

Feral cats may be carriers of bacteria and viruses that can be
transmitted to humans.

If you get bitten or scratched by a feral cat, you should get anti
rabies shots.

You should also get a general checkup.

What Vaccines do Feral Cats Require?

Feral cats have a stronger immune system due to the fact that the cat
lives on the street. However, feral cats require vaccination,
especially if you would like to adopt one.

The feral cat should get all the vaccines a kitten gets; however, the
vet should perform a few tests first, to make sure that the feral is
not already affected by certain viruses.

What Are the Problems Feral Cats Display?

Feral cats may present a number of problems. Ferals may be more
aggressive and they may bite or scratch, as they are not used to humans.

You should avoid playing with a feral cat. If you decide to adopt a
feral cat and you also have other cats, you should keep the feral cat
isolated and introduce him to the other cats gradually.

Ferals may also spray excessively as they are used to marking their
territory. This is a behavior that will require training to be
corrected. If you adopt the cat, make sure to clean the urine
immediately and wear gloves, as the urine may contain parasites,
bacteria and viruses.

Should Ferals Be Neutered?

Feral cats should be neutered, to prevent pet overpopulation. There
are a lot of pet support groups that perform neutering on feral cats.

If you decide to adopt a feral cat, you should neuter him. This may
correct the cat’s spraying behavior and will also make him less
aggressive and less interested in fighting.

Also, if the feral cat is neutered, he is less likely to bring you
mice, birds or other captured animals.

How to Deal with a Feral Cat

If you adopt a feral cat, you should vaccinate him and have him
checked up to ensure that he is in good health. Neuter him and then get
some dewormers.

The feral behavior may be difficult to deal with, so you may seek
advice from feral cat organizations. These organizations may offer you
support and may also help you train your newly acquired pet.